Greta Gerwig’s live-action Barbie movie has taken the box office by storm, becoming the biggest opening in the US and worldwide in a long time. Released on July 21, 2023, the film is a witty and thought-provoking take on the classic Mattel toy and stars Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling in the lead roles. But beyond the star power and social commentary, the movie is also packed with fun Easter eggs and references for eagle-eyed viewers.
A clever blend of humor and homage
Director Greta Gerwig and star Margot Robbie have crafted a film that’s both entertaining and clever. Barbie is layered with social messages, but it also winks at classic Hollywood movies in a playful way.
Right from the start, there’s a clear homage to Stanley Kubrick’s iconic sci-fi film 2001: A Space Odyssey. You might even remember seeing this reference in the trailers! Throughout the movie, you’ll also catch playful nods to The Wizard of Oz and even the classic mafia film The Godfather.
Spot the hidden references!
For fans of The Matrix, there’s a clever scene where Weird Barbie (played by Kate McKinnon) offers Stereotypical Barbie (Robbie) two choices, reminiscent of the famous “red pill or blue pill” scene from the Wachowskis’ film. And for those with a keen eye for detail, there’s even a subtle reference to the tax evasion case involving Barbie’s creator, Ruth Handler.
A touching tribute to the creator
Perhaps the most heartwarming Easter egg is a subtle nod to Michelangelo’s famous painting “The Creation of Adam.” In the scene where Stereotypical Barbie meets her creator, Ruth Handler (played by America Ferrera), for the first time, Ruth offers her a cup of tea. As their hands reach for the cup, their fingers almost touch, mirroring the iconic pose from the painting. This touching moment, as Margot Robbie herself revealed, pays homage to the creation of Barbie by Ruth Handler.
FAQs
When will Barbie be available on streaming services?The film was released in theaters on July 21, 2023, and is expected to arrive on HBO Max in the US sometime in August or September 2023. However, the exact date has not yet been announced.
Who else stars in Barbie? Besides Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling, the film boasts an impressive supporting cast including Emma Mackey, Ncuti Gatwa, Dua Lipa, America Ferrera, Issa Rae, Simu Liu, Anne Hathaway, Helen Mirren, and Kate McKinnon.
So, whether you’re a Barbie fan, a movie buff, or just looking for a fun and entertaining experience, Greta Gerwig’s Barbie is definitely worth checking out. Keep your eyes peeled for the hidden references, and enjoy the ride!
